What is Ramadan?

The festival of Ramadan calls for a huge celebration amongst the Muslim community. Observed in the ninth month of Islamic lunar calendar, it has a great significance and is celebrated worldwide. It is believed that during this month the Holy Quran was first sent to the prophet Mohammad, thus it is seen as a period of immense worship and dedication. During Ramadan it is believed that Allah guides you on the path of honesty, modesty, and nourishing relations. The word Ramadan is derived from the Arabic word ‘ramida or ar-ramad, which signifies scorching heat or dryness. In simple words, it interprets that if you fast during this period with a pure heart, your earlier sins incinerate. Thus, fasting is an essential component when observing Ramadan.

Fasting during Ramadan is believed to be more potent than normal fasting. During this period all Muslims must fast from dawn to sunset. Exemptions are made for children, weak, sick people, pregnant and menstruating females. The day begins with the normal routine followed by consumption of sehri, a special meal preparation consumed before the sunrise followed by the first prayer of fast, Fajr. Fasting is a word derived from the Arabic root ‘sawm’ which essentially means refraining not just from food and drinks but also from evil thoughts and acts. The fast is opened up by a prayer called Maghrib, followed by eating dates and water, which, is known as iftari. Muslims greet each other during this period by saying ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ and also exchange Ramadan gifts.

It has been said that during Ramadan, the gates to heaven are opened and to hell are closed. It is also believed that the evil spirits and devils are chained and some are released or a given a chance by the almighty Allah to burn away the sins of their past. It is considered as period to connect to the Allah and wash your soul. During Ramadan one should spend more time with their family and worshiping and/ or reciting Quran.

Ramadan calendar 2014

Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam religion. Since it is based on the lunar cycle, it is difficult to predict Ramadan timings every year. The astronomical committee decides the beginning of Ramadan in the last few days of Shabaan, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. Similarly, the end of Ramadan celebrations is judged by a moon sighting committee in the last few days of this month or by estimating the date of Eid-UL-filter. Therefore, the day of commencement and ending may vary across the world, owing to the variation in sunrise and sunset timings.

Though the timings may vary, but the spirit of Ramadan celebrations remains high and similar amongst all the Muslims across the globe. Celebrate this period with your friends and family and make it more cherishable by buying Ramadan flowers or any other gifts for Ramadan. So this Ramadan, cleanse yourself, nourish your relations, recite Quran and prayers more often, seek forgiveness and devote yourself to the Almighty Allah, so that your soul attains peace and paradise.